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Why the Northwestern Crown

Grizzly bear

Joe Riis

The northwestern section of Montana's Crown of the Continent sustains a vital tourism industry and the highest density of grizzly bears in the continental United States.

While its eastern neighbor, Glacier National Park, gets more attention, the lesser-known Whitefish Range and North Fork of the Flathead River offer rugged, wild experiences with their own brand of solitude. We’re working to protect wilderness and water quality in these special places.

Sustainable economic engine

Many fishing, rafting and tourism businesses depend on the clean, wild rivers and wild lands of the Northwestern Crown. More than two million visitors spend more than $150 million each year in the region, contributing to sustainable local economies.

More than two million visitors spend more than $150 million each year in the region, contributing to sustainable local economies.

Habitat for grizzly bears and trout

This hidden corner of Montana has the greatest density of grizzly bears in the lower 48 states and the healthiest runs of native bull trout.

Pristine wildlands needing permanent protection

Deep in the Whitefish Range is the wild heart of the region — the Ten Lakes Wilderness Study Area. Its outstanding hiking trails meander through old-growth forests, providing an amazing diversity of plant species up to windswept peaks, glaciated valleys and chains of alpine lakes. But this extraordinary wild place remains unprotected.

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Learn about how we protect Montana's Northwestern Crown

Best known as home to Glacier National Park, Montana's Northwestern Crown has many wildlands still in need of protection.